This year I've put some effort into getting the polytunnel back on track. The strawberries are one of the crops that's given plenty of fruit without any real input from last year and minimal weeding this year. The bed is mulched with black woven plastic so the weeds have been mainly kept at bay and the moisture has been kept in the soil. The result has been masses of very ripe strawberries, more than we can eat. You can't imagine how satisfying it is to eat home grown strawberries to a point where you simply can't eat anymore! It's also quite fulfilling to know that if you were to buy the same amount in the supermarket you'd be down at least E30!
Strawberries are easy to grow. You can start off by buying a tray of six plants, these will sprout 'babies' on little runners that you can root in a pot and plant out, thus extending and replenishing your bed each year substantially without any further cost.
Stawberries, I just can't fault them.
I completely agree... I made my bed bigger this year and fear ill just keep doing so every year! you almost cant have too many! especially cause catbirds eat about half of mine :)
Posted by: Chrisi | June 21, 2011 at 09:39 PM
I'm pleased to see you blogging again and to hear that you and the family are finding your feet after all the upheaval in your lives.
Posted by: Jo | June 22, 2011 at 11:03 AM
Totally agree we've had loads too although the black plastic sounds good as I've been battling with red ants.
We freeze the glut on a tray and then bag for midwinter milkshakes. Delish.
Posted by: Lou | June 22, 2011 at 01:38 PM
Good idea with the plastic to control weeds.
Posted by: Laura | June 25, 2011 at 06:17 AM
They look wonderful. We do not plant strawberries but will be able to pick at a farm in about a week. Enjoy!
Posted by: Chris | June 26, 2011 at 05:20 PM
Freezing and winter shakes sound amazing. Although the black plastic mesh doesn't stop the red ants I'm afraid. It's a battle of wills with the ants!
Posted by: Rebecca | June 27, 2011 at 10:40 PM
Nice to see you back blogging, especiallya bout something as nice as strawberries! Enjoy eating them with the kids, making jam, etc... Take good care!
Posted by: Polly Pierce | July 05, 2011 at 07:57 PM
Welcome back!, do strawberries suffer from frost? and what do you do to prevent rot? They look so fresh!! Thanks
Posted by: Donald Short | July 29, 2011 at 07:07 PM
You're right. I can't imagine that - has never happened to me I don't think!
Posted by: Moonwaves | July 31, 2011 at 04:39 PM
Glad to see you back! Both my wife and I enjoy yer blog!
Posted by: Michael | August 03, 2011 at 07:28 AM
This picture reminded me about the time when I was visiting my grandma. She had a wonderful garden. The best part is when you just eat the strawberries right there...The taste, the aroma!
Posted by: Nutritional Guidelines | August 20, 2011 at 11:20 AM
It does not matter how many i seem to grow, or how big they are but my 4yr old still can not get enough.
Posted by: Earthworms | August 22, 2011 at 01:56 PM
Well they grow in the summer, before the frost set in and they don't seem to have time to rot! I think the fact they sit on black mesh much probably reduces the problem of mould, you could try straw mulch to keep the straws off the damp soil too.
Posted by: Rebecca | September 07, 2011 at 08:04 PM
I love picking strawberries every year and making freezer jam. Isn't there a variety that grows in the fall, right about now? Nature is full of surprises.
Posted by: Bob Rehl | September 28, 2011 at 06:52 PM
Hi, just want to say i have stumbled upon your blog and looks great, love the picture on top of your blog..look forward to reading some of the many posts
Posted by: Mike | September 30, 2011 at 09:33 PM